The best part about Cherry Delight is the perfect balance between the creamy, tangy filling and the sweet, fruity cherry topping. As you take a bite, the buttery crunch of the graham cracker crust gives way to a luscious, velvety filling that melts in your mouth, followed by the refreshing burst of cherries that brings a delightful sweetness and slight tartness to each mouthful. This combination of textures and flavors makes Cherry Delight an irresistible treat that’s both comforting and elegant, perfect for any gathering or a special treat for yourself.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full sheets)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating an even layer. Use the bottom of a flat glass or a measuring cup to help pack it down tightly.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until it is golden brown and set. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until fully combined and smooth.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy whipping cream with the vanilla extract using clean beaters or a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. Continue folding until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Assemble the dessert:
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust using a spatula. Make sure to create an even layer, smoothing the top as much as possible.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Chill and serve:
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
- Before serving, cut into squares and use a spatula to lift each piece out of the pan. Enjoy your classic Cherry Delight chilled!
